Systems and methods for equalizing audio for playback on an electronic device

ABSTRACT

A method includes receiving a request to output audio at a speaker of an electronic device, determining whether the speaker of the electronic device is facing substantially towards or away from a support surface, identifying, based on whether the speaker of the electronic device is facing substantially towards or away from the support surface, an equalization setting, and providing, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, an audio signal with the equalization setting.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/299,050, filed Mar. 11, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/818,444, filed Nov. 20, 2017, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/341,798, filed Nov.2, 2016, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,854,374 on Dec. 26, 2017, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/464,789, filed Aug.21, 2014, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,521,497 on Dec. 13, 2016, each ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

This application generally relates to improving audio playback onelectronic devices. In particular, the application relates to platformsand techniques for applying equalization settings to audio data to beoutput by an electronic device based on a position or orientation of anactive speaker of the electronic device relative to a surface.

BACKGROUND

Electronic devices such as smart phones support various channels andcomponents for audio playback. For example, a user of an electronicdevice may participate in a telephone call by listening via an“earpiece” or “speakerphone” speaker of the electronic device. Further,the electronic device may output music via one or more built-inspeakers. Additionally, the user may leverage an external speakerconnected to the electronic device for added or enhanced audio playback.

There are various existing techniques to process audio data that isoutput via the speaker components of the electronic devices. In someexisting devices, processing logic modifies the incoming signal to aspeaker via various audio signal processing techniques based on volumesettings, frequency response feedback, pressure feedback, or impedancefeedback. In other devices, the orientation of peripheral headphonesconnected to the device is used to map sound signals that are providedto the headphones.

There is an opportunity to use data from one or more sensors of anelectronic device to process audio data that is to be output by theelectronic device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements throughout the separateviews, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated inand form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrateembodiments of concepts that include the claimed embodiments, andexplain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict example electronic devices capable of facilitatingselection and modification of audio equalization settings, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIGS. 3-5 depict example representations of local positions ororientations of electronic devices, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 6 and 7 depict example representations of a user interacting withelectronic devices, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 8A and 8B depict a signal diagram associated with retrievingsensor data and processing audio data associated with an electronicdevice, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 depicts a flow diagram of retrieving sensor data and processingaudio data associated with an electronic device, in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device in accordance withsome embodiments.

FIGS. 11-13 depict example frequency response graphs, in accordance withsome embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Audio equalization is a technique used to alter the frequency and/orphase and/or time response of audio data, such as via the application ofanalog or digital filters. For example, filters may be applied to audiodata to adjust the bass and treble tones present in outputted audio.Existing electronic devices support various applications that utilizespeaker components to output audio, such as telephone applications,music applications, video conferencing applications, video players,social media applications, navigation applications, and others.Techniques to equalize the audio data that is output during operation ofthese various applications can lead to an improved user experience.

The embodiments described here process data from various built-insensors of an electronic device to determine the general environment andorientation of the electronic device, and specifically an active speakerand speaker grille, relative to supporting or nearby surfaces andoptionally to the listener. Generally, the orientation of the electronicdevice, including the orientation of the active speaker and its outputgrille, has an effect on the overall quality and sound of outputtedaudio. For example, if a built-in speaker grille of an electronic deviceis oriented flat against a surface, the audio output from a speaker maynot have the intended bass tones, treble tones, resonance, and/or otheraudio characteristics. Typical electronic devices are equipped withvarious sensors whose data can indicate orientations and positions ofthe electronic devices. In particular, the sensors may include imagingsensors (e.g., cameras), proximity sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes,location modules, ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, and others.

The electronic devices can store and adapt equalization settings thatcorrespond to various local positions, orientations, or generalenvironments for the electronic devices, whereby each of theequalization settings incorporates filters configured to improve oroptimize the audio output for that particular local position of theelectronic device relative to supporting surfaces and, in some cases, tothe listener. For example, an electronic device may be stable andstationary with its built-in speaker grille(s) positioned flat (althoughpossibly also recessed) against a surface. For further example, theelectronic device may be stable and stationary with its built-inspeaker(s) exposed but orientated away from a user. Further, forexample, the electronic device may be stable but not stationary when itis traveling in a vehicle and secured in a dock or mount. Generally, anelectronic device may be considered “stable” when there is little to nomovement of the electronic device relative to a support surface(s).Further, an electronic device may be considered “stationary” when it isnot moving. Accordingly, an electronic device may have absolutestability when (1) the electronic device itself is not moving (i.e.,stationary) and (2) there is little to no movement of the electronicdevice relative to a surface(s); or relative stability when (1) theelectronic device is moving (i.e., not stationary) and (2) there islittle to no movement of the electronic device relative to a surface(s)(e.g., if the electronic device is mounted to a mount in a vehicle).

According to embodiments, the electronic device may collect data fromvarious sensors and analyze the data to determine the local position ofthe electronic device. Further, the electronic device may identify astored equalization setting that corresponds to the determined localposition of the electronic device. In some optional embodiments, theelectronic device may modify the equalization setting based on variousfactors such as acoustic input data (e.g., audio data generated by amicrophone), optical data (e.g., data indicating whether a user isfacing the speaker), infrared data, ultrasonic data, or other data. Theelectronic device may then apply the modified or unmodified equalizationsetting to the audio data, and output the equalized audio data via oneor more speakers. In some cases, different speakers may have differentequalization settings. The embodiments as discussed herein offer abenefit to users of the electronic devices by providing an improvedaudio playback experience. This benefit is especially important aselectronic devices become more advanced and more incorporated intoeveryday use.

FIG. 1 depicts a front view of an example electronic device 105configured to facilitate audio equalization processing and audio output.The electronic device 105 may be any type of portable electronic device,for example, a notebook computer, a mobile phone, a Personal DigitalAssistant (PDA), a smart phone, a tablet computer, a multimedia player,an MP3 or MP4 player, a digital or analog broadcast receiver, a remotecontroller, or any other electronic apparatus. It should be appreciatedthat the front side of the electronic device 105 can be of variousshapes and sizes. For example, the front side of the electronic device105 can be flat, curved, angled, flexible, or the like.

The electronic device 105 can include audio components such as a speaker118 with a grille 102, and a microphone 110 with an aperture 130. Thespeaker 118 is configured to output audio based on an electrical audiosignal and the microphone 110 is configured to convert detected soundinto an electrical signal. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the speaker 118 isan “earpiece” speaker that is commonly utilized by a user duringtelephone calls or similar applications. It should be appreciated thatthe types, sizes, and locations of the speaker 118, the speaker grille102, the microphone 110, and the microphone aperture 130 are merelyexamples and that other types, sizes, and locations are envisioned.

The electronic device 105 can further include various sensors configuredto detect proximate objects, listeners, orientations, positions,locations, and other general environment data associated with theelectronic device 105. The position, orientation, and range of thesesensors are fixed relative to a position and orientation of an activespeaker of the electronic device 105. In particular, the electronicdevice 105 can include a proximity sensor 106 (e.g., capacitive,inductive, infrared, etc.) that is configured to detect the presence ofnearby objects or objects in contact with the electronic device 105, andgenerate resulting proximity data. This proximity data may also reflectinformation regarding nearby objects relative to the speaker or speakergrille of the electronic device 105. The electronic device 105 canfurther include an imaging sensor 108 configured to capture opticalimages and generate resulting optical data (e.g., digital images). Theoptical data may also reflect information regarding objects relative tothe speaker or speaker grille of the electronic device 105. It should beappreciated that various locations, types, sizes, and multiples of theproximity sensor 106 and the imaging sensor 108 are envisioned. Althoughnot depicted in FIG. 1, it should be appreciated that the electronicdevice 105 may further include one or more ultrasonic sensors and/or oneor more infrared sensors.

Additionally, the electronic device 105 can include an accelerometer 116configured to measure an acceleration, or general orientation ormovement of the electronic device 105 and generate resultingacceleration data, as well as a gyroscope 114 configured to measure anorientation or position of the electronic device 105 and generateresulting orientation data. For example, the gyroscope 114 may be athree-axis gyroscope configured to measure the pitch, roll, and yaw ofthe electronic device 106. Further, the accelerometer 116 may be athree-axis accelerometer that together with the three-axis gyroscopecollectively provides six-axis capability. The electronic device 105 canadditionally include a location module 112 that is configured to detecta location of the electronic device 105. For example, the locationmodule 112 may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) module. Notethat Cartesian axes X-Y-Z are anchored to the electronic device 105rather than the environment.

Turning now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of an exampleelectronic device 205 (such as a back view of the electronic device 105discussed with respect to FIG. 1). Again, the Cartesian axes X-Y-Z areanchored to the electronic device and thus are rotated relative to theaxes in FIG. 1 due to the fact that the electronic device 205 is rotatedrelative to the depiction in FIG. 1. The electronic device 205 caninclude an imaging sensor 207 configured to capture optical images andgenerate resulting optical data (e.g., digital images), as well as aflash component 209 to assist in the capture of the optical images. Theelectronic device 205 can further include at least one speaker 218 witha grille 238 configured to output audio based on an electrical audiosignal. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the speaker 218 is a “built-in”speaker that is commonly utilized to output audio during operation ofapplications such as music playback, speakerphone, and/or other similarapplications (which can be the same as or in contrast to theapplications used by the “earpiece” speaker 118 of FIG. 1). Asconventionally implemented, the speaker 218 may be recessed within theelectronic device 205, whereby the grille 238 both protects the speaker218 and exposes at least a portion of the speaker 218 to the exterior ofthe electronic device 205. Further, it should be understood that thepositions and locations of the components of the electronic device 205are merely examples and that other positions and locations for thecomponents are envisioned.

It should be appreciated that the back side of the electronic device 205can be of various shapes and sizes. For example, the back side of theelectronic device 205 can be flat, curved, angled, flexible, or thelike. Therefore, in cases in which the back side is curved or angled,for example, the speaker grille 238 may not make direct contact with asurface on which (a portion of) the back side of the electronic device205 rests. Of course, if the back side is flat and the back side ismaking direct contact with a surface, then the speaker grille 238 mayalso make direct contact with the surface unless the grille is recessed.

Although FIG. 2 depicts a single speaker 218, it should be appreciatedthat multiple speakers 218 on the same side of the electronic device 205are envisioned, such as two speakers arranged as left-right stereospeakers, two speakers on opposite sides of the electronic device 205,or two speakers ported out the sides of the electronic device 205.Further, it should be appreciated that speakers 218 may be disposed orlocated on another surface or side of the electronic device 205, such asa bottom surface of the electronic device 205. It should further beappreciated that the various sensors and duplicate audio components ofthe electronic device 105, 205 may be multiplicatively located onmultiple sides of the electronic device 105, 205 or otherwise located ona side of the electronic device 105, 205 that is not depicted in FIGS. 1and 2. For example, the front side of the electronic device 105 caninclude the proximity sensor 106 and the back side of the electronicdevice 205 can also include a proximity sensor. For further example, thespeaker 218 can instead be located on the bottom or top (y-direction) ofthe front side of the electronic device 105.

Returning to FIG. 1, the electronic device 105 further includes atouchscreen 120 and a processor 122. The touchscreen 120 is configuredto display visual content and detect touch input from a user of theelectronic device 105. In embodiments, a user interface of theelectronic device 105 can include the touchscreen 120 via which the usermay make selections and generally facilitate functionalities of theelectronic device 105 as well as audio and tactile components. Theprocessor 122 may be a singular hardware component or may include threeseparate processors: an application processor to manage the applicationsand user interface 120 of the electronic device 105, a sensor processoror sensor hub to manage sensor data, and an audio processor to processaudio data. The processor 122 is configured to process data associatedthe various audio components and sensors (e.g., 102, 110, 106, 108, 112,114, 116, 207, 218), and facilitate the audio processing and outputfunctionalities as discussed herein. In particular, the processor 122interfaces with the audio components and sensors to detect various localpositions or orientations of the electronic device 105, 205, as well aswhether the electronic device 105, 205 is stable. Generally, when theelectronic device 105, 205 is stable, it may experience little to nomovement relative to a supporting surface. Based on the stability andlocal positions or orientations, the processor 122 can identifycorresponding equalization settings for audio data to be output.According to embodiments, the electronic device 105, 205 is configuredto store the equalization settings.

Further, in some embodiments, the equalization settings may be analogequalization data implemented by two or more sets ofresistor-inductor-capacitor (RLC) components (generally: an amplifiercircuit), where the analog equalization data is selectable by a switch(e.g., a mechanical press switch). In these embodiments, the switch maydetect contact with a surface, and may accordingly modify the path of anaudio signal through a corresponding amplifier circuit, whereby theamplifier circuit corresponds to an analog equalization setting.

In embodiments, the processor 122 can modify an identified equalizationsetting based on various factors or data, such as optical data generatedby the imaging sensor 108, 207, audio input data generated by themicrophone 110, proximity data, and/or accelerometer data. The processor122 can apply any modified or unmodified equalization setting to anaudio signal and cause the speaker 218 to output the audio signal suchthat the audio signal will be equalized according to the stability,position, and/or orientation of the electronic device 105, 205 and itsactive speakers and speaker grilles. In some implementations, the audioequalization functionalities may be performed by analog equalizationcomponents and/or digital logic.

FIG. 3 illustrates example local positions 311, 313 or orientations ofan electronic device. For purposes explaining FIG. 3, it may be assumedthat the built-in media or “main” speaker of the electronic device(e.g., the speaker 218) may have its grille located on the back side ofthe electronic device or otherwise opposite from the touchscreen.However, in general, it should be appreciated that the built-in activespeaker may be located on the front, top, bottom, or other sides of theelectronic device. Further, in some embodiments, an earpiece speaker(e.g., the speaker 118) that is located on the front side of theelectronic device may constitute the active speaker via which audio maybe output, in lieu of or in addition to a back side built-in speaker.Additionally, the electronic device may include multiple built-inspeakers located on various sides or combinations or sides of theelectronic device.

The electronic device in the local position 311 is face up on a surface321 such as a table, desk, counter, or any other surface capable ofsupporting the electronic device, with its speaker grille or coveringface down on the surface 321. Similarly, the electronic device in thelocal position 313 is face down on the surface 321 with its speakergrille face up. In embodiments in which the electronic device is in theface up local position 311, the gyroscope (e.g., the gyroscope 114) andthe accelerometer (e.g., the accelerometer 116) detects that the mainspeaker 218 is oriented in a downward direction with respect to gravityand stable, and the proximity sensor (e.g., the proximity sensor 106)does not sense proximate contact with any surface. Then, the processor(e.g., the processor 122 or other logic circuitry) can determine thatthe electronic device is face up and stable and infer that it issupported relative to the surface 321. Accordingly, the processor canidentify a “stable, face up” equalization setting corresponding to thelocal position 311. In particular, the “stable, face up” equalizationsetting can account for the downward orientation of the speaker (i.e.,the speaker grille is oriented towards the surface 321). It should beappreciated that the processor may determine the “stable, face up”configuration using other combinations of sensors. As discussed herein,if the speaker grille is oriented towards the surface 321, the speakergrille may or may not make direct contact with the surface 321.

In embodiments in which the electronic device is in the local position313, the gyroscope and the accelerometer detects that the speaker isoriented in an upward direction with respect to gravity and stable, andthe proximity sensor (e.g., the proximity sensor 106) senses proximatecontact with the surface 321. In this case, the processor can infer thatthe electronic device is face down and stable. Accordingly, theprocessor can identify a “stable, face down” equalization settingcorresponding to the local position 313. In particular, the “stable,face down” equalization setting can account for the upward orientationof the speaker (i.e., the speaker grille is not oriented towards thesurface 321).

In some embodiments, the electronic device can additionally oralternatively retrieve data from one or more imaging sensors (e.g., theimaging sensors 108, 209) to help determine the local position. Forexample, if a rear-facing imaging sensor (e.g., the imaging sensor 207)detects a dark local environment and a front-facing imaging sensor(e.g., the imaging sensor 108) detects a light local environment, theprocessor can determine that the electronic device is face up (andvice-versa for a face-down determination). Further, as described in moredetail below, the one or more imaging sensors may be configured toanalyze image data of the listener to determine the angle of theelectronic device relative to the listener.

There may be situations in which there is conflicting sensor datarelated to the stability and/or orientation of the electronic device.For example, a proximity sensor and an ultrasonic sensor may senseconflicting surface proximity data. In these situations, the electronicdevice may support a hierarchy or priority that dictates which sensordata to use and which sensor data to disregard. It should be appreciatedthat the hierarchy or priority may order the various sensors of theelectronic device in any order, and may be a default setting and/orconfigurable by a user.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example local position 417 or orientation of anelectronic device. Specifically, the electronic device in the localposition 417 has one edge supported by a horizontal surface 421 andanother edge supported by a vertical surface 423 such that neither thefront side nor the back side of the electronic device makes directcontact with one of the supporting surfaces 421, 423. It should beappreciated that other orientations in which the electronic device isindirectly supported by multiple surfaces is envisioned.

In some embodiments in which the electronic device is in the localposition 417, the gyroscope (e.g., the gyroscope 114) and theaccelerometer (e.g., the accelerometer 116) detects that a speakergrille 418 is stable and at least partially oriented toward thesupporting surfaces 421, 423, and the proximity sensor (e.g., theproximity sensor 106 or the proximity sensor 209) does not sense director proximate contact with any of the surfaces 421, 423. Then, theprocessor (e.g., the processor 122) can determine that the electronic isface up, stable, and indirectly supported. Accordingly, the processorcan identify a “stable, face up, indirect support” equalization settingcorresponding to the local position 417. In particular, the “stable,face up, indirect support” equalization setting can account for thespeaker grille 418 oriented toward the supporting surfaces 412, 423 butnot making direct or proximal contact with the supporting surfaces 412,413. In embodiments, the proximity sensor may be located next to orproximate the speaker grille 418 to sense or detect when the covering ofthe speaker grille 418 is in close contact with either of the supportingsurfaces 421, 423.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example local position 525 or orientation of anelectronic device. Specifically, the electronic device in the localposition 525 is supported by an example mount 526, dock, or holder. Forexample, the mount 526 may be a vehicle windshield mount that providessupport for the electronic device when traveling in a vehicle. Asillustrated in FIG. 5, the mount 526 supports the electronic device onits bottom and sides and allows a speaker grille 518 and correspondingspeaker to be exposed (but oriented away from a listener such as avehicle driver or passenger). In some embodiments, the electronic devicecan sense that it is supported by the mount 526 via a Hall effect magnetor other type of sensor or component configured to detect when theelectronic device is connected or secured to the mount 526 (e.g., USB,NFC, ultrasound, custom connector, etc.). In other embodiments, theelectronic device can determine that it is supported by the mount 526from gyroscope orientation data and/or accelerometer acceleration data.For example, if the orientation data indicates that the “x” or “y”dimension of the electronic device is “up” (i.e., the electronic deviceis perpendicular or near perpendicular to gravity) with a relativelysmall amount of “tilt,” then the electronic device can conclude that itis supported by the mount 526. In embodiments, the electronic device candetermine different orientations, such as if the mount 526 enables bothportrait and landscape orientations.

In some embodiments in which the electronic device is in the localposition 525, the gyroscope (e.g., the gyroscope 114) and theaccelerometer (e.g., the accelerometer 116) detects that the electronicdevice is stable or supported, and a location module (e.g., the locationmodule 112) detects that the electronic device is in motion. Then, theprocessor (e.g., the processor 122) can determine that the electronicdevice is stable and supported by the mount 526. In some cases, theacceleration data from the accelerometer can imply both that theelectronic device is stable and that the electronic device is in motion(i.e., not stationary), for example in a vehicle. Accordingly, theprocessor can identify a “stable contact/mounted” equalization settingcorresponding to the local position 525. In particular, the “stablecontact/mounted” equalization setting can account for the speaker grille518 oriented away from a user or person whereby the “x” or “y” dimensionof the electronic device is “up” or close to “up” with respect togravity. It should be appreciated that there may be differentequalization settings depending on the type of the mount 526, to accountfor how the speaker grille 518 is oriented, whether the speaker grille518 is blocked by the mount 526, or other considerations.

Although not illustrated in the figures, it should be appreciated thatthe electronic device may use other types of data from other sensors todetermine its local position, orientation, or environment. For example,location data from a location module such as a GPS module can indicatethat the electronic device is indoors, outdoors, in a car, or in anotherenvironment. For further example, if the electronic device is connectedto a wireless local area network (WLAN), the electronic device canhypothesize that it is in an indoor environment. Additionally, if theelectronic device detects that it is being charged (e.g., via a USBcord), then the electronic device can deduce that it may remain in thesame location or position for a period of time. Further, the electronicdevice may account for an auxiliary battery pack that charges theelectronic device. Moreover, the electronic device can examine opticaldata from the imaging sensor(s) to deduce whether the electronic deviceis in an indoor or outdoor environment. According to embodiments, theelectronic device can store or maintain equalization settings thatcorrespond to these and other environments or local positions.

In some embodiments, the electronic device may account for multiplespeakers from which to output audio data. In cases in which theelectronic device has multiple internal or built-in speakers, each ofthe internal speakers may have an individual equalization setting.Further, the electronic device may connect to an auxiliary speaker(e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to output audio in additionto the one or more built-in speakers of the electronic device.Accordingly, the one or more built-in speakers may output audio datathat is processed according to the determined local position of theelectronic device (as well as the respective equalization setting(s)),and the electronic device may further apply a default equalization tothe audio data and provide that audio data to the auxiliary speaker foroutput. In some cases, the electronic device may apply the sameequalization setting to each built-in speaker(s) as well as anyauxiliary speaker(s). In other cases, the electronic device may applydifferent equalization settings to respective audio data that is to beoutput by the multiple speakers, such as in cases in which the multiplespeakers are oriented differently with respect to a user, when multiplespeakers are loaded differently by an adjacent surface or lack orsurface, or in cases in which each speaker corresponds to a differentfrequency (e.g., one built-in speaker serves as a tweeter, anotherbuilt-in speaker serves as a mid-range, and an auxiliary speaker servesas a woofer). In some embodiments, any equalization(s) applied toauxiliary speaker(s) may align the output(s) of the speaker(s) to anylistener(s), whereby the auxiliary speaker(s) may have imaging sensor(s)configured to detect relative locations of the listener(s) so that theelectronic device can send signal(s) to the speaker(s) that aretime-aligned for the listener of choice.

FIG. 6 depicts an example representation 600 of a user 650 positionednear an electronic device 605. The electronic device 605 may besupported by a mount as illustrated in FIG. 6. As discussed herein, theelectronic device 605 may include one or more imaging sensors that areconfigured to generate optical data corresponding to the field of viewof the imaging sensor(s). For example, the electronic device may includea front-facing imaging sensor (e.g., the imaging sensor 108) and arear-facing imaging sensor (e.g., the imaging sensor 209) that togetherenable a “360 degree” field of view. The electronic device 605 cananalyze the optical data to detect the presence of the user 650 as wellas determine the position of the user 650 relative to the electronicdevice 605. For example, if optical data from a front-facing imagingsensor detects the user 650, the electronic device 605 can determinethat the user 650 is at least positioned in front of the electronicdevice 605.

To identify an appropriate equalization setting to apply to audio datagiven the local orientation of the electronic device 605 active speakergrille relative to its surroundings, the electronic device 605 canreconcile the determined position of the user 650 with location orposition data corresponding to one or more speakers of the electronicdevice 605. For example, if a speaker is located on the rear side of theelectronic device 605 and the optical data from a front-facing cameraindicates that the user 650 is positioned in front of the electronicdevice 605, the electronic device 605 can identify an equalizationsetting that corresponds to the speaker oriented away from the user 650.Similarly, for the same speaker located on the rear side of theelectronic device 605, if the optical data from a rear-facing cameraindicates that the user 650 is positioned on the rear side of theelectronic device 605, the electronic device 605 can identify anequalization setting that corresponds to the user 650 having a directline to the speaker. The optical data may also indicate multiplelisteners (including the user 650) in proximity to the electronic device605. In this case, the electronic device 605 may be configured toperform various facial recognition or machine learning techniques toidentify the “primary” listener (e.g., the owner of the electronicdevice 605) and may identify/apply the equalization setting accordingly.In some embodiments, if the optical data indicates multiple listeners,the electronic device may select or revert to a preferred or defaultequalization setting (e.g., an equalization setting corresponding to asingle user in front of a stable electronic device).

The user 650 may also change his or her position relative to theelectronic device 605, which can affect tonality or the quality of theaudio experienced by the user 650. In particular, as a user 750 asdepicted in FIG. 7 moves on or off an axis of the speaker, the audioexperienced by the user can change. FIG. 7 depicts an examplerepresentation 700 of a user's movements in relation to an electronicdevice 705 (e.g., in the x- and/or y-directions). The example electronicdevice 705 includes a front-facing imaging sensor 708 and a front-facingspeaker 751, whereby the user 750 is positioned facing the front side ofthe electronic device 705.

The optical data generated by the imaging sensor 708 may indicate achange in position of the user 750, for example as a result of the user750 moving his or her head relative to the electronic device 705. In anycase, the user 750 may change his or her position in a variety ofdirections (753, 755) relative to both the imaging sensor 708 and thespeaker 751. As the user 750 changes his or her position, the user 750may experience varied audio playback. For example, the audio that theuser 750 hears when directly perpendicular to the axis of the speaker751 may be different from the audio that the user 750 hears whenpositioned at an 70° angle from the axis of the speaker 751. Based onthe change in position indicated in the optical data, the electronicdevice 705 can dynamically modify the equalization settings to beapplied to the audio signal, and can output the equalized audio data soas to account for the new position of the user 750. In some embodiments,the electronic device 705 may maintain a lookup table of equalizationsettings matched to angle (e.g., in the θ and φ dimensions or theirCartesian equivalents) to account for the position of the user 750relative to the speaker output axis.

FIGS. 8A and 8B depict an example signaling diagram 800 facilitated byan electronic device and associated with processing audio data accordingto local positions or orientations of the electronic device. Theelectronic device can include a processor 822 (such as the processor 122discussed with respect to FIG. 1), a sensor hub 820, a speaker 818 (suchas the speaker 218 discussed with respect to FIG. 2), a gyroscope 814(such as the gyroscope 114 discussed with respect to FIG. 1), anaccelerometer 816 (such as the accelerometer 116 discussed with respectto FIG. 1), a proximity sensor 806 (such as the proximity sensor 106discussed with respect to FIG. 1), an imaging sensor 808 (such as theimaging sensor 108 discussed with respect to FIG. 1), and a microphone810 (such as the microphone 110 discussed with respect to FIG. 1). Inanother embodiment, simple digital logic may be used to implement thefunctionalities of the signaling diagram 800.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the gyroscope 814 may periodically,intermittently, or continuously transmit (854) orientation data to thesensor hub 820 and the accelerometer 816 may periodically,intermittently, or continuously transmit (856) acceleration data to thesensor hub 820. In embodiments, the sensor hub 820 may request thegyroscope 814 and the accelerometer 816 for orientation data andacceleration data, respectively. The processor 822 may periodically,intermittently, or continuously request (855) a sensor-derived state ofthe electronic device from the sensor hub 820, where the sensor-derivedstate may be identified from the most recent orientation data andacceleration data.

The functionalities may continue with a user 850 of the electronicdevice requesting (852) audio playback. For example, the user 850 caninterface with a music streaming application and request to initiateplayback of a playlist or song. The processor 822 can examine thesensor-derived state of the electronic device retrieved in 855 todetermine (858) whether the electronic device is stable. In some cases,the processor 822 can deduce that the electronic device is stable if theorientation data and the acceleration data indicate that the electronicdevice is not moving. In other cases, the processor 822 can deduce thatthe electronic device is stable if the orientation data and theacceleration data indicate that the electronic device is in motion butis supported (e.g., if the electronic device is secured in a mount in avehicle).

If the processor 822 determines 858 that the electronic device is notstable (“NO”), for example if the user 850 is holding the electronicdevice, the processor 822 can apply (860) a default equalization setting(or, in some cases, a handheld equalization setting) to an audio signaland provide (862) the audio signal with the applied default equalizationsetting to the speaker 818. The speaker 818 can output (864) the audiosignal with the applied default equalization setting. If the processor822 determines that the electronic device is stable (“YES”), theprocessor 822 can retrieve (866) proximity data from the proximitysensor 806. Based on the proximity data, the processor 822 can determine(868) whether a portion of the electronic device (or more particularly,the proximity sensor 806) senses proximity to an external object orsurface. If the processor 822 determines 868 that the proximity sensor806 senses proximity to the surface (“YES,” for example the localposition 313 illustrated in FIG. 3), the processor 822 can identify(870) a “stable direct contact” equalization setting. In contrast, ifthe processor 822 determines that the proximity sensor 806 does notsense proximity to the surface (“NO,” for example the local positions311 and 415 illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4), the processor 822 canidentify (872) a “stable indirect contact” equalization setting. In anoptional embodiment, the proximity sensor 806 (or in some cases anultrasonic sensor or another sensor) may detect a distance from aspeaker grille (such as the speaker grille 238) of the electronic deviceto the surface. In this implementation, the processor 822 may identifyan equalization setting that is additionally based on the distance fromthe electronic device to the surface (which may be the same as ordifferent from the “stable indirect contact” equalization settingidentified in 872).

In an optional embodiment, the processor 822 can retrieve (874) audioinput data from the microphone 810. In some embodiments, the audio inputdata can include microphone feedback present in various environments(e.g., indoor, outdoor, etc.). The processor 822 can optionally modify(876) the equalization setting based on the audio input data. In anotheroptional embodiment, the processor 822 can retrieve (878) optical datafrom the imaging sensor 808 (and optionally from an additional imagingsensor). The optical data can detect a presence of the user 850 and canindicate the location of the user 850 relative to the location of thespeaker 818 (e.g., if the user 850 is facing the front side of theelectronic device and the speaker 818 is on the opposite side of theelectronic device). Further, the optical data can indicate a change inthe location of the user 850 relative to the axis (i.e., a perpendiculardirection) of the speaker 818. The change in the location of the user850 may also be characterized by angle(s) of the user 850 relative toaxis(es) of the electronic device speaker, whereby the electronic devicemay maintain/access a lookup table storing various equalization settingsbased on the angle(s). According to embodiments, the user 850 mayexperience different audio tonalities as the user 850 moves “off” or“on” the axis of the speaker 818. The processor 822 can optionallymodify (880) the equalization setting based on the optical data.

The processor 822 can apply (882) the modified or unmodifiedequalization setting to the audio signal. Further, the processor 822 canprovide (884) the audio signal with the applied equalization setting tothe speaker 818 and the speaker 818 can output (886) the audio signalwith the applied equalization setting. In embodiments, the localposition of the electronic device may change, and the processor 822 candynamically identify other various equalization settings based on thechange in local position. Further, the processor 822 can perform theequalization setting modification, audio data application, and audiooutput functionalities based on the changed local position.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method 900 for an electronic device (such asthe electronic device 105) to process various sensor data and facilitateaudio equalization techniques based on the sensor data. The order of thesteps of the depicted flowchart of FIG. 9 can differ from the versionshown, and certain steps can be eliminated, and/or certain other onescan be added, depending upon the implementation. The method 900 beginswith the electronic device receiving 957 a request to output audio via aspeaker. The request may be received from a user via a user selection ormay be automatically detected via another type of trigger (e.g., a voicecommand, an NFC detection, a scheduled trigger, etc.).

The electronic device determines 959 if it is stable by examiningacceleration data from an accelerometer and/or orientation data from agyroscope. In another embodiment, the electronic device may retrieve asensor-derived state of the electronic device from a sensor hub. If theelectronic device is not stable (“NO”), the electronic device identifiesa default equalization setting and applies 961 the default equalizationsetting to an audio signal. The default equalization setting may be astandard or universal equalization setting that is used for example whenthe local position of the electronic device is indeterminate. Theelectronic device also outputs 963, via the speaker, the audio signalaccording to the default equalization setting. Processing can thenreturn to 959 or proceed to other functionality.

If the electronic device is stable (“YES”), the electronic devicedetermines 965 if its speaker grille is contacting or proximate to asurface by examining proximity data from a proximity sensor (or viaother sensors such as an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, orothers). If the proximity data does not indicate contact or proximity(“NO”; e.g., if the electronic device is leaning against a surface andthe speaker grille is not supported by the surface), the electronicdevice identifies 969 a stable indirect contact equalization setting. Insome cases, the speaker grille may be orientated away from a supportsurface, whereby the electronic device may identify an away-orientedequalization setting. If the proximity data does indicate contact orproximity (“YES”; e.g., if the electronic device is laying flat on asurface and the speaker grille is facing the surface), the electronicdevice identifies 967 a stable contact equalization setting. Inembodiments, the electronic device can also identify the equalizationsetting based on the orientation of the speaker (e.g., if the speaker(and corresponding speaker grille) is face up or face down). In somecases, the electronic device may not be able to determine whether it isstable, in which case the electronic device may estimate its distance tothe surface (e.g., via proximity data) and apply equalization dataaccordingly.

In an optional embodiment, the electronic device retrieves audio inputdata, for example from a microphone, and modifies 971 the identifiedequalization setting based on the audio input data. For example, if themicrophone detects background noise, the electronic device can modifythe equalization setting to account for the background noise. Theelectronic device further determines 973 if there is any optical data,such as if an imaging sensor detects a presence of a user positionedrelative to the speaker. If optical data is not available or no user isfound in the optical data (“NO”), the electronic device applies 975 theidentified equalization setting to the audio signal. If there is opticaldata and a user is found in the optical data (“YES”), the electronicdevice modifies 977 the identified equalization setting based on theoptical data. For example, the optical data can indicate that the useris positioned on a side of the electronic device opposite from thespeaker. For further example, the optical data can indicate that theuser is positioned at a certain angle relative to an axis of thespeaker. The electronic device applies 979 the modified equalizationsetting to the audio signal.

After applying the equalization setting, the electronic device outputs981, via the speaker, the audio signal according to the appliedequalization setting. The electronic device also determines 983 if thereis a change in the optical or stability data, such as if the useradjusts his or her position relative to the speaker. In this case, theimaging sensor generates updated optical data corresponding to theuser's change in position. If there is only a change in the optical data985 (“YES”), processing may return to 977 in which the electronic devicemodifies the equalization setting based on the updated optical data. Ifthere is a change in data other than optical data (such as a change instability data) (“NO”), processing may return to 959. The determinationsof 983 and 985 may be may be repeated periodically or when triggered bya change in optical or stability inputs. If there is not a change in theoptical or stability data in 983 (“NO”), processing may end or proceedto other functionality. In some embodiments, the electronic device mayfurther modify the equalization setting based on GPS location and/oracoustic loading.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example electronic device 1005 (such as theelectronic device 105 discussed with respect to FIG. 1, or otherdevices) in which the functionalities as discussed may be implemented.The electronic device 1005 can include a processor 1097 or other similartype of controller module or microcontroller, as well as a memory 1098.The processor 1097 may include a singular processor or may include morethan one separate processor such as: an application processor to managethe applications 1087 and user interface 1091 of the electronic device1005, a sensor processor to manage sensor 1096 data, and an audioprocessor to process audio 1094 data. The memory 1098 can store anoperating system 1099 capable of facilitating the functionalitiesdiscussed. The processor 1097 can interface with the memory 1098 toexecute the operating system 1099 and a set of applications 1087. Theset of applications 1087 (which the memory 1098 can also store) caninclude an audio equalization application 1088 configured to processaudio data according to the techniques discussed. The set ofapplications 1087 can also include one or more other applications 1089such as, for example, music and entertainment applications, phoneapplications, messaging applications, calendar applications, socialnetworking applications, utilities, productivity applications, games,travel applications, communication application, shopping applications,finance applications, sports applications, photography applications,mapping applications, weather applications, applications for connectingto an online marketplace, and/or other applications.

The memory 1098 can further store a set of equalization settings 1001that correspond to various local positions or orientations of theelectronic device 1005. According to embodiments, the audio equalizationapplication 1088 can interface with the equalization settings 1001 toretrieve appropriate equalization settings to apply to audio data.Generally, the memory 1098 can include one or more forms of volatileand/or non-volatile, fixed and/or removable memory, such as read-onlymemory (ROM), electronic programmable read-only memory (EPROM), randomaccess memory (RAM), erasable electronic programmable read-only memory(EEPROM), and/or other hard drives, flash memory, MicroSD cards, andothers.

The electronic device 1005 can further include a communication module1095 configured to interface with one or more external ports 1090 tocommunicate data via one or more wired or wireless networks 1085. Forexample, the communication module 1095 can leverage the external ports1090 to establish a wide area network for connecting the electronicdevice 1005 to other components such as a remote data server. Accordingto some embodiments, the communication module 1095 can include one ormore transceivers functioning in accordance with IEEE standards, 3GPPstandards, or other standards, and configured to receive and transmitdata via the one or more external ports 1090. More particularly, thecommunication module 1095 can include one or more WWAN, WLAN, and/orWPAN transceivers configured to connect the electronic device 1005 towide area networks (e.g., to receive steaming music that may bepre-equalized for the electronic device 1005), local area networks,and/or personal area networks. The electronic device 1005 may furtheruse one of the external ports 1090 to connect to peripheral or auxiliarycomponents such as an auxiliary speaker.

The electronic device 1005 can further include one or more sensors 1096such as one or more accelerometers 1016, gyroscopes 1014, imagingsensors 1008, proximity sensors 1006, a presence sensor (not shown inFIG. 10), one or more ultrasonic sensors (not shown in FIG. 10) andlocation modules 1003. The sensors 1096 may also include other types ofsensors such as light sensors, infrared sensors, touch sensors, NFCcomponents, and other sensors. The electronic device 1005 may furtherinclude a user interface 1091 configured to present information to theuser and/or receive inputs from the user. As illustrated in FIG. 10, theuser interface 1091 includes a display screen 1093 and I/O components1092 (e.g., capacitive or resistive touch sensitive input panels, keys,buttons, lights, LEDs, cursor control devices, haptic devices, andothers). In embodiments, the display screen 1093 is a touchscreendisplay using singular or combinations of display technologies and caninclude a thin, transparent touch sensor component superimposed upon adisplay section that is viewable by a user. For example, such displaysinclude capacitive displays, resistive displays, surface acoustic wave(SAW) displays, optical imaging displays, and the like. The userinterface 1091 may further include an audio module 1094 includinghardware components such as one or more speakers 1018 for outputtingaudio data and one or more microphones 1010 for detecting or receivingaudio.

In general, a computer program product in accordance with an embodimentincludes a computer usable storage medium (e.g., standard random accessmemory (RAM), an optical disc, a universal serial bus (USB) drive, orthe like) having computer-readable program code embodied therein,wherein the computer-readable program code is adapted to be executed bythe processor 1097 (e.g., working in connection with the operatingsystem 1099) to facilitate the functions as described herein. In thisregard, the program code may be implemented in any desired language, andmay be implemented as machine code, assembly code, byte code,interpretable source code or the like (e.g., via C, C++, Java,Actionscript, Objective-C, Javascript, CSS, XML, and/or others).

Generally, frequency response is the measure of a speaker's audio outputas a function of frequency, in comparison to an input signal.Manufacturers of speakers may wish to reproduce the input signal withlittle or no distortion. However, a listener of outputted audio from anelectronic device may experience different frequency responses when thedevice (and the speaker(s) of the device) are in different positions ororientations. As discussed herein, the systems and methods applydifferent equalization settings to an input signal when the electronicdevice is in different positions or orientations, in an effort toaccurately reproduce the input audio signal as it was meant to be heard.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate example frequency response graphs for audiooutput from an electronic device in various local positions. Inparticular, the frequency response graphs correspond to audio that isdetected by a microphone positioned at various locations relative to aspeaker of the electronic device. According to embodiments, the systemsand methods store various equalization settings that may correspond tothe frequency response graphs. Further, the systems and methodsdetermine the local position of the electronic device, identify thecorresponding equalization setting, and apply the equalization settingto an audio signal so as to more accurately reproduce the audio signal.

FIG. 11 illustrates four (4) example frequency response graphs thatcorrespond to a tabletop local position for an example electronicdevice. The “D” frequency response graph corresponds to an electronicdevice located on a table with its speaker face up on the table, the “E”frequency response graph corresponds to the electronic device located onthe table with its speaker face up on the table and tilted 2 cm off thetable, the “F” frequency response graph corresponds to the electronicdevice located on the table with its speaker face down on the table, andthe “G” frequency response graph corresponds to the electronic devicelocated on the table with its speaker face down on the table and tilted2 cm off the table. As depicted in FIG. 11, the signal amplitudemeasured at approximately 2500 Hz is approximately +11 dB (SPL) greaterfor the “G” frequency response graph than it is for the “E” frequencyresponse graph; however the signal amplitude detected at approximately10000 Hz is approximately +8 dB (SPL) greater for the “E” frequencyresponse graph than it is for the “G” frequency response graph. Theequalization settings corresponding to the “D,” “E,” “F,” and “G”frequency response graphs can be generated accordingly to match theunaltered, measured response curve to a desired response curve.

FIG. 12 illustrates three (3) example frequency response graphs thatcorrespond to a stable local position for an example electronic device.The “A” frequency response graph corresponds to a user holding theelectronic device with the speaker facing the user, the “B” frequencyresponse graph corresponds to the user holding the electronic devicewith the speaker oriented 90 degrees away from the user (i.e., thespeaker is perpendicular to the user), and the “C” frequency responsegraph corresponds to the user holding the electronic device when thespeaker oriented 180 degrees from the user (i.e., the speaker is facingaway from the user). As depicted in FIG. 12, the signal amplitudedetected by the microphone across some of the higher (treble)frequencies is greater for the “A” frequency response graph than it isfor the “B” and “C” frequency response graphs. Accordingly, theequalization setting for the “speaker facing user” local position canreduce the treble gain more than the equalization settings for the localpositions in which the speaker is oriented away from the user.

FIG. 13 illustrates device response curves corresponding to the “A”-“G”local positions discussed with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12. Inparticular, FIG. 13 illustrates the sound pressure that is “heard” by alistener when the listener and the device are in the indicatedpositions. An equalization setting for a corresponding local positionmay be derived based on a difference between the corresponding responsecurve and a desired response curve.

Thus, it should be clear from the preceding disclosure that the systemsand methods offer improved audio output quality. In particular, theembodiments leverage data from multiple sensors and components toidentify appropriate equalization settings for electronic devices toapply to audio signals. Accordingly, the embodiments advantageouslyenable an improved audio listening experience for users of theelectronic devices.

This disclosure is intended to explain how to fashion and use variousembodiments in accordance with the technology rather than to limit thetrue, intended, and fair scope and spirit thereof. The foregoingdescription is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to theprecise forms disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible inlight of the above teachings. The embodiment(s) were chosen anddescribed to provide the best illustration of the principle of thedescribed technology and its practical application, and to enable one ofordinary skill in the art to utilize the technology in variousembodiments and with various modifications as are suited to theparticular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations arewithin the scope of the embodiments as determined by the appendedclaims, as may be amended during the pendency of this application forpatent, and all equivalents thereof, when interpreted in accordance withthe breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving a request tooutput audio at a speaker of an electronic device; when a single flatsupport surface is supporting the electronic device, determining, by aprocessor of the electronic device based at least on acceleration datafrom an accelerometer, whether the speaker of the electronic device isfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface; identifying, based on whether the speaker of the electronicdevice is facing substantially towards or away from the single flatsupport surface, an equalization setting; and providing, for output atthe speaker of the electronic device, an audio signal with theequalization setting.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the equalizationsetting comprises a first equalization setting, wherein the audio signalcomprises a first audio signal, and wherein the method furthercomprises: determining, based on data from a sensor of the electronicdevice, a position of a user relative to the speaker of the electronicdevice; after identifying the first equalization setting, modifying,based on the position of the user relative to the speaker, the firstequalization setting to generate a second equalization setting; andproviding, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, a secondaudio signal with the second equalization setting.
 3. The method ofclaim 2, further comprising: determining, based on updated data from thesensor, a change in the position of the user relative to the speaker;modifying, based on the change in the position of the user relative tothe speaker, the second equalization setting to generate a thirdequalization setting; and providing, for output at the speaker of theelectronic device, a third audio signal with the third equalizationsetting.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the position ofthe user relative to the speaker comprises determining, based on thedata from the sensor, a position tilt of the user relative to thespeaker, and wherein modifying the first equalization setting comprisesmodifying, based on the position tilt of the user relative to thespeaker, the first equalization setting to generate the secondequalization setting.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:determining, based on the data from the sensor, a change in the positiontilt of the user relative to the speaker; modifying, based on the changein the position tilt of the user relative to the speaker, the secondequalization setting to generate a third equalization setting; andproviding, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, a thirdaudio signal with the third equalization setting.
 6. The method of claim1, wherein determining whether the speaker of the electronic device isfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface comprises determining that a speaker grille of the speaker isfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising determining, basedon proximity data from a proximity sensor, that the speaker grille ofthe speaker has direct contact or is otherwise proximate to the singleflat support surface.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein determining thatthe speaker grille of the speaker is facing substantially towards oraway from the single flat support surface comprises determining, basedon at least one of the acceleration data from the accelerometer ororientation data from a gyroscope, that the speaker grille of thespeaker is facing substantially towards or away from the single flatsupport surface.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprisingdetermining an amount of motion of the electronic device relative to thesingle flat support surface; and wherein identifying the equalizationsetting is further based on a determination that the electronic devicehas substantially no motion relative to the single flat support surface.10. The method of claim 9, wherein determining that the electronicdevice has substantially no motion relative to the single flat supportsurface comprises determining, based on at least one of the accelerationdata from the accelerometer or orientation data from a gyroscope, thatthe electronic device has substantially no motion relative to the singleflat support surface.
 11. A system comprising: an accelerometerconfigured to generate acceleration data; at least one processor; and acomputer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, whenexecuted by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processorto: receive a request to output audio at a speaker of an electronicdevice; when a single flat support surface is supporting the electronicdevice, determine, based at least on the acceleration data generated bythe accelerometer, whether the speaker of the electronic device isfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface; identify, based on whether the speaker of the electronic deviceis facing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface, an equalization setting; and provide, for output at the speakerof the electronic device, an audio signal with the equalization setting.12. The system of claim 11, wherein the equalization setting comprises afirst equalization setting, wherein the audio signal comprises a firstaudio signal, and wherein the instructions further cause the at leastone processor to: determine, based on data from a sensor of theelectronic device, a position of a user relative to the speaker of theelectronic device; after identifying the first equalization setting,modify, based on the position of the user relative to the speaker, thefirst equalization setting to generate a second equalization setting;and provide, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, asecond audio signal with the second equalization setting.
 13. The systemof claim 12, wherein the instructions further cause the at least oneprocessor to: determine, based on updated data from the sensor, a changein the position of the user relative to the speaker; modify, based onthe change in the position of the user relative to the speaker, thesecond equalization setting to generate a third equalization setting;and provide, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, a thirdaudio signal with the third equalization setting.
 14. The system ofclaim 12, wherein the instructions cause the at least one processor todetermine the position of the user relative to the speaker at least bydetermining, based on the data from the sensor, a position tilt of theuser relative to the speaker, and wherein the instructions cause the atleast one processor to modify the first equalization setting at least bymodifying, based on the position tilt of the user relative to thespeaker, the first equalization setting to generate the secondequalization setting.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein theinstructions further cause the at least one processor to: determine,based on the data from the sensor, a change in the position tilt of theuser relative to the speaker; modify, based on the change in theposition tilt of the user relative to the speaker, the secondequalization setting to generate a third equalization setting; andprovide, for output at the speaker of the electronic device, a thirdaudio signal with the third equalization setting.
 16. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the instructions cause the at least one processor todetermine whether the speaker of the electronic device is orientedfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface at least by determining that a speaker grille of the speaker isfacing substantially towards or away from the single flat supportsurface.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the instructions furthercause the at least one processor to determine, based on proximity datafrom a proximity sensor, that the speaker grille of the speaker hasdirect contact or is otherwise proximate to the single flat supportsurface.
 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the instructions cause theat least one processor to determine that the speaker grille of thespeaker is facing substantially towards or away from the single flatsupport surface at least by determining, based on at least one of theacceleration data from the accelerometer or orientation data from agyroscope, that the speaker grille of the speaker is facingsubstantially towards or away from the single flat support surface. 19.The system of claim 11, wherein the instructions cause the at least oneprocessor to: determine an amount of motion of the electronic devicerelative to the single flat support surface, identify the equalizationsetting based on a determination that the electronic device hassubstantially no motion relative to the single flat support surface, anddetermine that the electronic device has substantially no motionrelative to the single flat support surface at least by determining,based on at least one of the acceleration data from the accelerometer ororientation data from a gyroscope, that the electronic device hassubstantially no motion relative to the single flat support surface. 20.A computer-usable storage medium storing instructions that, whenexecuted by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor toperform operations comprising: receiving a request to output audio at aspeaker of an electronic device; when a single flat support surface issupporting the electronic device, determining, based at least onacceleration data from an accelerometer, whether the speaker of theelectronic device is facing substantially towards or away from thesingle flat support surface; identifying, based on whether the speakerof the electronic device is facing substantially towards or away fromthe single flat support surface, an equalization setting; and providing,for output at the speaker of the electronic device, an audio signal withthe equalization setting.